Dementia and the LGBTQ+ community

Living with dementia as an LGBTQ+ person can bring particular challenges, both for the person and those caring for them. However, support is available.

Supporting an LGBTQ+ person with dementia

Most types of dementia cause people to experience memory problems. In addition to the day-to-day difficulties that this causes, LGBTQ+ people may be affected in other ways.

For example, if a person with dementia has told some people about their sexual orientation or gender identity but not others, the person may forget who they’ve shared this with. They may think they have told some people when they haven’t.

Memory problems LGBTQ+ people with dementia may experience

For an LGBTQ+ person, choosing how to tell others about (‘disclose’) their sexual orientation or gender identity can be a difficult decision. They may also be unsure who to tell. When a person develops dementia, this decision can be even more challenging.

However, if they have made decisions about this regularly in the past, they may be more used to doing this.

Expressing identity or orientation for LGBTQ+ people with dementia

Everyone experiences the challenges of dementia in their own individual way. Being LGBTQ+ and having dementia can bring other additional challenges. It can help to be aware of and prepared for these issues.

LGBTQ+: Living with dementia

Some of the symptoms of dementia can have particular implications for LGBTQ+ people. For example, memory problems might make it harder for you to remember who you have told about your sexual orientation or gender identity.

Memory problems and reminiscence as an LGBTQ+ person with dementia

As an LGBTQ+ person with dementia, it can be difficult to find suitable housing, but options are available. It may help to look into this as soon as you feel able. It might feel very early to think about this now, but it will help you to be ready if the time comes.

Finding the right care settings as an LGBTQ+ person with dementia

Getting professional help and support can enable you to live well with dementia. However, as an LGBTQ+ person, you may feel reluctant to access services. You may be worried about having to disclose your sexual orientation or gender identity or having to hide it.

Accessing services as an LGBTQ+ person with dementia